5 Runway-Inspired Ways to Reinterpret Leather this Summer

We know you’re working up a sweat just thinking about it, but we promise you there are a number of ways to tackle summer leather. Whether you look to more breathable options, strategic cut-outs and shorter hemlines to get a much-needed breeze onto exposed skin, or put a summery twist on a winter-wardrobe favourite with new colours and clever styling, there’s definitely room for leather all year round.

We’re looking to the runway on how you can reinterpret and incorporate the toughest of fabrics into your summer wardrobe, with five easy-to-follow tips below.

1. Freshen up with white

Alex Perry, Christopher Esber, Manning Cartel/ IMAXTRee, Photo: Lucas Dawson/ Facebook

Leather is a heavy, harsh material, but by adding fresh-white pieces you can easily make the look lighter and more summer-appropriate. Perfect for the monochrome lover, or anyone who loves a classic and minimal wardrobe.

2. Crops, cut-out detail and prints

Manning Cartell, Bianca Spender/ Don Arnold/WireImage, IMAXTree

Crops are both sexy and feminine, while also giving your midriff some breathing space, but, if it’s not for you, opt for cut-out detailing on an area of your body which you like. Teaming with a print will add even more of a fun, summery vibe to any dark-hued leathers.

3. Go lightweight

Bianca Spender, Dion Lee, Kahlo/ IMAXTree

Over summer, the thinner the clothes, the better. Opt for lighter, more breathable leathers, and remember, there’s no shame in pleather or leather-look alternatives.

4. Shorter hemlines

Bianca Spender/ IMAXTree

Be open to summer-friendly silhouettes like playsuits, mini dresses, and shifts, to replace your biker jackets and tights. It’s a much tougher option than your rotating girlie picnic frocks.

5. Look to a new black

Kahlo/IMAXTree

There’s no better way to revive your aesthetic than to look to different colours. Gone are the days when leather was only available in black, with the tough fabric now available in whites, blues, burgundies, greys, you name it. We’re loving metallics, which will take your outfit from day to night.